Mehmet Cengiz Öz, widely known as Dr. Oz, is a Turkish-American cardiothoracic surgeon, author, and television personality. Born on June 11, 1960, in Cleveland, Ohio, he earned his undergraduate degree from Harvard University and both his MD and MBA from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and Wharton School. Oz gained prominence through “The Dr. Oz Show,” a daily television program focusing on medical and health topics, which aired from 2009 to 2022.

In 2022, Oz entered politics as the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania but was defeated in the general election.

On November 19, 2024, President-elect Donald Trump nominated Dr. Oz to serve as the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This federal agency oversees health insurance programs covering over a third of Americans, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Oz’s nomination has been met with both support and criticism. Supporters highlight his medical background and public health advocacy, while critics point to his promotion of unproven medical treatments and products during his television career.

The Senate confirmation process will further evaluate his qualifications and suitability for the role.